Kohala Hawaii Maps and Directions

The Region of Kohala is located on the Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, and encompasses the historic districts of South and North Kohala. On the Northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii, there are two highways that lead to Kohala and the towns of Hawi and Kapaau. The lower highway #270 is considered the Kohala coastal route and is also referred to as Akoni Pule Highway. The upper highway #250 is considered the Kohala Mountain Road and offers scenic views of Kohala's rolling hills and expansive ranch land.

North Kohala Overview Map

Directions from
Kona Airport to Hawi & Kapaau

Directions from
Hilo Airport to Hawi & Kapaau

Traveling by Car:

Travel distance from Kona International Airport to Hawi and Kapaau is approximately 50 miles and takes about an hour. Travel North on highway 19 to the Kawaihae junction. Turn left towards the harbor and take highway 270 North to Hawi.

Travel distance from Hilo International Airport to Hawi and Kapaau is approximately 90 miles and takes about two hours. Travel North out of Hilo on highway 19. Continue through the towns of Honokaa and Waimea (Kamuela) until you reach the Kawaihae junction. Continue towards the harbor to connect with highway 270. Continue North on highway 270 to Hawi.

Highway 250 over the upper mountain road is a beautiful scenic route to take from Hilo or Waimea, however, the road is narrow and winding and may be challenging for some drivers unfamiliar with the area.

Traveling into Kohala by Airplane:

Kohala's small unmanned Upolu Airport is available for use to small aircraft. Often used for flight training and medivac for North Kohala, the airport can be utilized by some air charter companies as a pick up and drop off location. Upolu Airport is the closest Big Island Airport in distance to the Island of Maui. There are no facilities, fuel or businesses at this airport so you will need to make arrangements for travel into and out of the area.

Kohala Visitors Information and Travel Guides

Download the informative guides to Kohala's attractions and businesses that include the historic towns of Hawi and Kapaau. These guides are also available at rack card displays around the island as well as hotel concierges. Click the images below to download the PDF version.